Secretary

Recently released from a mental hospital after treatment for self-mutilating tendencies, a young woman (Maggie Gyllenhaal) gets a job as a secretary for a successful attorney (James Spader) with a tendency toward angry disapproval. The mix of self-loathing (her) and egomania (him) leads them into a unique relationship charged with sadomasochism. This twisted, humorous tale of repressed passion marks Gyllenhaal's first starring role. (Netflix)

There was something absolutely fascinatingly wonderful about Secretary. I loved it for all its seemingly conflicting characteristics: dark, kinky, disturbing, humorous, harsh, tender, sad, romantic. In short, it's odd...in a strangely upbeat sort of way.

I adored Maggie Gyllenhal, who was totally hot in Stranger Than Fiction and who nailed her performance in Secretary. And James Spader, currently the star of Boston Legal (TV), was brilliant in the film. I loved to hate him, hated to love him, and ended up doing both.

If you enjoy quirky, adult-themed independents, peppered with a good dose of S & M, you'll appreciate Secretary.

Do you have any recommendations for off-center independents?